Targeted quantum dots: A novel approach for diagnosis and treatment of neurodegenerative diseases

Nanotechnology-based approaches using quantum dots (QDs) are attracting growing attention for neurodegenerative diseases. These include carbon- and graphene-based nanostructures, ZnO QDs, and emerging black phosphorus nanomaterials, all of which serve as multifunctional theranostic platforms. QDs possess unique properties derived from their crystalline inorganic lattice structures, strong ionic/covalent bonding, optical features, and tunable surfaces. These attributes enhance their applicability in drug delivery, molecular imaging, and biosensors. Furthermore, the ability of QDs to cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB) via receptor-mediated, adsorptive, or carrier-assisted pathways has driven the development of advanced surface functionalization strategies to improve targeting specificity and biocompatibility. This review focuses on the application of targeted QDs in major neurodegenerative disorders, including Alzheimer’s disease (AD), Parkinson’s disease (PD), and multiple sclerosis (MS), highlighting recent preclinical advances, diagnostic and therapeutic mechanisms, and BBB transport strategies. Despite these advances, challenges such as long-term toxicity, biological stability, regulatory approval, and scalable synthesis must be addressed to realize the clinical potential of QD-based nanomedicine in neuroscience fully.

کلیدواژه ها:

Alzheimer’ s disease (AD) ، Neurodegenerative ، Parkinson’ s disease (PD) ، Target ، QDs (QDs) ، Theragnostic